With the release of “Breach,” the third album from New York based band The Wallflowers, comes not only Jakob Dylan’s newfound ability to talk about life as the son of a rock star, but also absolute proof that he is not riding on his father’s coattails. The long awaited album, released four years after their sophomore release, “Bringing Down the Horse,” combines intelligent lyrics with catchy melodies, creating songs every listener can enjoy, if not relate too. Although there are only ten songs on the album, topics as broad as a father’s discouraging words, dying love, and obsession are dissected in the manner Wallflower fans have come to demand. Influences from Tom Petty, Counting Crows, Bruce Springsteen, and The Eagles can be heard, along with the occasional guitar riff reminiscent of B.B. King. The Wallflowers master both slow, methodical ballads and standard rock anthems, often combing both to form songs with dark verses and deceptively upbeat choruses.
Jakob Dylan has had to work harder than most to prove his worth, and “Breach” solidifies his place among the rock-and-roll elite. Long time Wallflower listeners and those new to Dylan’s lyrical and music masterpieces will undoubtedly be pleased with the latest Wallflowers project, and fans can only hope Jakob and his band mates won’t wait another four years before turning out a fourth album.
Bottom Line: Worth the four year wait, and the $18 list price.